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SHANAHAN IN TEST OF WILLS WITH HAYNESWORTHThe standoff between Albert Haynesworth and the Redskins is about much more than defensive schemes and positions. What's really at play here is Coach Mike Shanahan's need to exert his will over the football operation -- and Haynesworth providing an obstacle to that end.

Shanahan has repeatedly expressed his displeasure with Haynesworth for his decision to train on his own rather than participate in the Redskins' voluntary offseason conditioning program at Redskins Park. And earlier Wednesday, it was learned Haynesworth probably will not attend Washington's first voluntary minicamp that begins April 16. (Washington Post)

MD SAYS BRING YOUR PETS TO THE PARK
It's getting easier to take your pooch to a Maryland state park.

The Department of Natural Resources said Wednesday it is increasing access for pets at many of the approximately 70 state parks.

The changes include allowing pets in eight parks where they were banned, including Assateague, New Germany and all of Patapsco Valley except the Pickall area. (WTOP)

NEWS YOU ALREADY KNEW: DC IS BEST CITY FOR LAWYERS
The final match of our March Madness was not quite as thrilling as the Duke-Butler game. DC pulled away from San Francisco at the very beginning, when voting started on Monday afternoon. We were amused to see that lawyers in SoCal contributed to DC’s early momentum (pictured at right).

DC finished strong, defeating San Fran 61-39. So now it’s official: Congratulations, Washingtonians. You are in the best place in America to be a lawyer. Go to One First Street and do a victory lap around the Supreme Court. (Above the Law)

STUDY: PUBLIC TRANSIT RIDERS SAVE $9K ON GAS
Metro has seen a spike in ridership as gasoline prices rise, but many of the riders may be searching for pink blossoms instead of a bit more green in their wallets.

"What is having an impact is the picture-perfect weather. I don't remember ever seeing so many tourists in Washington as we have had in the past few days," said AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesman Lon Anderson. (Gazette.net)